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Substance Abuse Associate Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Behavioral Health Tech

Cleveland, TN · On-site

$13.50 - $16.75/hr

A High School Diploma or GED is the standard baseline, though an Associate's or Bachelor's degree in psychology or social work is preferred. * Experience: Prior experience in substance abuse ...

Optometrist

Memphis, TN · On-site

$150K/yr

Full-Time Optometric Associate - Join a Top-Rated, Tech-Advanced Practice! Are you an ambitious ... We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.

Optometrist

Memphis, TN · On-site

$150K/yr

Full-Time Optometric Associate - Join a Top-Rated, Tech-Advanced Practice! Are you an ambitious ... We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.

Behavioral Health Tech

Cleveland, TN · On-site

$13.50 - $16.75/hr

A High School Diploma or GED is the standard baseline, though an Associate's or Bachelor's degree in psychology or social work is preferred. * Experience: Prior experience in substance abuse ...

Behavioral Health Tech

Cleveland, TN · On-site

$13.50 - $16.75/hr

A High School Diploma or GED is the standard baseline, though an Associate's or Bachelor's degree in psychology or social work is preferred. * Experience: Prior experience in substance abuse ...

Showing results 21-40

Substance Abuse Associate information

What is a substance abuse associate?

Substance Abuse Associates are professionals who assist individuals struggling with drug or alcohol addiction. They provide support through counseling, education, and connecting clients with resources such as treatment programs or support groups. These associates often work under the supervision of licensed counselors and may help with intake assessments, documentation, and relapse prevention planning. Their goal is to help clients achieve and maintain sobriety while supporting their overall well-being.

What are common challenges substance abuse associates face when working with clients, and how can they manage them?

Substance Abuse Associates often encounter challenges such as client relapse, resistance to treatment, and managing complex emotional or behavioral issues. Effectively managing these challenges involves building strong rapport with clients, employing evidence-based motivational interviewing techniques, and working closely with a multidisciplinary team to tailor treatment plans. Ongoing supervision, professional development, and self-care practices are also essential for associates to maintain resilience and provide the best support for their clients.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a substance abuse associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Substance Abuse Associate, you need a background in psychology, counseling, or social work, often supported by a relevant degree and state certification or licensure. Familiarity with case management software, treatment planning systems, and documentation protocols is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and effective communication are vital for building trust and supporting clients through recovery. These skills and qualifications are essential for delivering effective care, maintaining compliance, and fostering positive client outcomes.

What is the difference between Substance Abuse Associate vs Substance Abuse Counselor?

AspectSubstance Abuse AssociateSubstance Abuse Counselor
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some states require certification or trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; state certification or licensure often required
Work EnvironmentClinics, treatment centers, hospitals, outpatient facilitiesSimilar settings, including outpatient and inpatient facilities
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in healthcare and addiction treatment settings, often as entry-level staffLicensed professionals providing therapy and counseling services
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles in substance abuse treatmentSeeking licensed professionals for counseling services

Substance Abuse Associates typically perform supportive roles under supervision, focusing on client monitoring and assistance. Substance Abuse Counselors are licensed professionals providing therapy and treatment plans. Both roles are vital in addiction treatment but differ mainly in certification requirements and scope of practice.

What are the most commonly searched types of Substance Abuse jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Substance Abuse jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Substance Abuse Associate jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Substance Abuse Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Substance Abuse Associate job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

PRN Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) Night Shift (6:00pm to 6:30am)

THE NEXT DOOR INC

Nashville, TN

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Per diem, Other

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Job Title:                    Behavioral Health Tech (BHT) PRN

Reports To:               BHT Manager

Location:                    Nashville

Classification:           Part-Time as needed, non-exempt

Mission:         

The mission of The Next Door Recovery is to provide a continuum of evidence-based substance abuse and mental health services for women in an environment of faith and healing to restore hope and a lifetime of recovery.

Summary:

BHT (Behavioral Health Tech Team), in conjunction with the assigned nurses, are responsible for providing client supervision in a structured and supportive residential environment. All full-time BHTs will be required to work at least one of the TNDR observed holidays.

Primary Responsibilities and Duties include the following:

  • Assist nurse with assigned client’s vital signs and medication pass.
  • Communicate with your assigned medical staff the needs of clients.
  • Assist with new client’s floor orientation and schedule.
  • Assigned BHT may assist Admissions and Treatment Team with new Intakes by assisting with searches, vital signs, and urine drug screens.
  • If warranted, document assigned clients activities and client interaction in EHR.
  • Assist in preparing client appointment reminders, room name placard and cleaning of linens (night shift).
  • Complete client rounds per policy.
  • Perform urine drug screens/breathalyzer as assigned following agency protocol.
  • Based on staff rotation, assists at the front desk as needed; direct incoming calls to appropriate staff and interacting with guests, visitors, family members and outside providers.
  • Report facility maintenance concerns.
  • Carry out assigned responsibilities pertaining to the emergency management plan utilizing emergency procedures and non-violent crisis intervention.
  • Transport assigned clients to and from appointments, groups, and other activities as requested by supervisor (must be 25 years of age with a valid driver’s license).
  • Maintain order in storage closet as needed.
  • Employs de-escalation techniques mediating potential crisis between clients when necessary.
  • Utilizes local crisis response plan in case of psychiatric emergency (i.e. suicidal/homicidal ideation or threats) at the direction of the team nurse or supervisor.  
  • Utilize effective communication when contacting On-Call staff to report pertinent information after hours.
  • Attend meetings and trainings in-house, electronic, Webinar, etc as directed by supervisor.
  • Follow agency protocol about contraband and items not allowed in client possession.
  • Participate in continuing education activities, remaining knowledgeable in areas related to the focus of the residential program (ie; addiction, mental health).
  • Perform clerical duties as assigned.
  • Additional responsibilities as assigned.

Education and Experience:

  • High School diploma or GED required. Associate degree or some college preferred
  • Minimum experience working with target population preferred
  • Experience working in a healthcare setting preferred
  • Knowledge of substance abuse/addiction issues or related work experience preferred
  • Possess proficient computer skills including Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint
  • Ability to establish and maintain professional therapeutic boundaries

Other Requirements:

  • 25 years of age or older with a valid driver’s License.
  • 21 -24 years of age (will not be permitted to transport clients)
  • CPR Certified or willingness to obtain certification as offered by TNDR

All Employees will adhere to the following professional standards:

  • Honor the agency mission:  The mission of The Next Door Recovery is to live out our faith by providing a continuum of evidence-based substance abuse and mental health services for women in an environment of faith and healing to restore hope and a lifetime of recovery.
  • Consistently treat patients and co-workers with the utmost respect.
  • Keep ALL information regarding staff, client, diagnosis, group information, etc. confidential at all times.
  • Work as a necessary part of the team effort.
  • Model ethical and professional behavior at all times.
  • Participate in ongoing meetings and trainings as required by the leadership of The Next Door Recovery
  • Be creative and assist leadership with ideas for improving the overall quality of the services and environment for the residents of The Next Door Recovery.
  • Encourage and live the core values of The Next Door Recovery, Inc., at all times: 
    • Love ~ We demonstrate what love looks like, so our women learn to love others in healthy ways and love themselves.
    • Faith ~ We welcome all people, and all will be cared for with Christ-centered principles.
    • Hope ~ We believe hope is within reach for all women.
    • Wholeness ~ God has a plan and purpose for a woman’s life and that is abundantly good.  She does not have to be defined by her past decisions.  God loves.  God forgives.  Every woman can be whole and complete.
    • Community ~ We are building a healthy community in which our women are contributing members of society.  We need one another.  We care for one another.  We will teach our women how to build their own healthy community.
    • Respect ~ We believe each woman deserves respect from us and from each other.  We believe each woman can learn to respect herself and others.
    • Encouragement ~ We believe that our words and actions should build one another up.  We inspire one another with love and good deeds.